A person who has a lifestyle that limits their success in the world, and causes them to risk elimination from the gene
pool.
The term refers to the giant panda which only eats bamboo, a
food that offers little nutritional value and only allows
mother pandas to raise one cub at a
time. In addition, panda bears are known for being reluctant to reproduce, severely limiting their species's success.
Humans can be referred to as "pandas" when they choose a lifestyle that limits their ability to earn a living, maintain their health, or provide for a
family. This term is especially appropriate when a person squanders opportunities available to them.
Examples include: vegans, who prioritize the health and well-being of other animals above their own; and
college dropouts, who had an opportunity to improve their life through education but failed to seize it.